Economic & Employment Services

Energy Assistance

The 2026 LIEAP application period has ended. Information regarding the next application period will be provided when it is available.

The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) is a federally funded program that helps eligible households pay a portion of their home energy costs by providing a one-time per year benefit.

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What is LIEAP?

The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) is a federally funded program that helps eligible households pay a portion of their home energy costs in the winter by providing a one-time per year benefit. LIEAP benefits can be used for homes heated with electricity, natural gas, propane, or other home heating fuels.

Who is eligible for LIEAP?

To qualify for LIEAP, applicants must meet the following requirements:

An adult living at the address must be personally responsible for paying the heating costs at the current residence, payable either to the landlord, utility company, or fuel supplier.
The combined gross income (before deductions) of all persons living at the address may not exceed 150% of the federal poverty level according to the guidelines listed below:

Persons Living at this Address	Maximum Gross Monthly Income
1	$1,956
2	$2,644
3	$3,331
4	$4,019
5	$4,706
6	$5,394
7	$6,081
8	$6,769
+1 $688 for each additional person

How do I apply for LIEAP?

Applying for LIEAP is easy. During the LIEAP application period, you can complete your LIEAP application online through the DCF Self-Service Portal or request a paper application from your local DCF Service Center.
Answer all the questions on the application to the best of your ability. The application provides us with the information we need to determine eligibility for your household. You must include the signatures of all adults living in the residence.

Please also provide copies of the following information:
Proof of income (earned and unearned) for anyone living in the residence.
Copy of all fuel bills (gas, electric, propane, etc.).
Proof of child support payments received or the court order.
If in subsidized housing, provide a copy of your rental agreement.
If your primary heating costs are included in your rent, provide a copy of your rental agreement.
If your utility bills are in the landlord’s name, provide a copy of the lease agreement.Other information may be requested as needed.

Where are the in-person LIEAP application events being held this year?

DCF typically hosts in-person LIEAP application events across the state for those who need help completing their LIEAP application. Events for the next LIEAP application period will be provided once information is available.

Do I have to apply for LIEAP every year?

Most households will need to submit a new application for LIEAP every year.

Some households may be continuously eligible for LIEAP for a three-year period if everyone in the household is 62 years old or older and Social Security or KPERS is the only source of income. Households that meet this criterion will be notified when they need to fill out a new application to renew their LIEAP benefits.

Are LIEAP benefits issued on a first-come, first-served basis in Kansas?

Kansas uses a formula to help ensure funds do not deplete too quickly during the LIEAP season. Once the funding is received from the federal government, Kansas issues the LIEAP funds in a way that allows everyone who applies, and is eligible, to receive a benefit. Kansas has never run out of LIEAP funds before processing all applications received during the LIEAP application season.

How much is the LIEAP benefit amount?

The LIEAP benefit amount is based on several factors, including:
- Federal funding received and the anticipated number of applicants.
- Household income.
- Number of persons living at the address.
- Type of dwelling.
- Type of primary heating fuel.

Can I qualify for LIEAP if my name is not on the utility bill?

An adult household member’s name must be on the utility bill of the primary heating source. If you rent from a landlord and heating costs are included in the rent or are owed in addition to the rent, you may also qualify and should apply for LIEAP under your name.

Can the LIEAP benefit be split between two utilities?

Yes. Both bills must be in the name of an adult household member.

How many LIEAP payments will I receive?

LIEAP pays only one benefit per year.

If funding allows, a supplemental LIEAP benefit may be issued at the end of each LIEAP season to households that received a benefit during that season. Households will be notified if they are going to receive a supplemental LIEAP benefit.

I received my LIEAP benefit but still need help paying my utility bill. What else can I do?

Kansans may be able to find additional support by contacting United Way’s 211 hotline or website, 211.org, or by calling 1-800-CHILDREN (1-800-244-5373) or visiting their website, 1800childrenks.org.

Your utility company may also have other options to help with your utility bill.

What is the Cold Weather Rule?

The Cold Weather Rule helps ensure Kansans will have electric, gas, and water service for their homes during the winter. You must make pay arrangements with your utility to use the rule.

The Cold Weather Rule applies only to residential customers of electric and natural gas utility companies under the Kansas Corporation Commission’s jurisdiction.

For more information about the Cold Weather Rule, please visit the KCC website at https://www.kcc.ks.gov/consumer-information/cold-weather-rule or contact the Kansas Corporation Commission at 1-800-662-0027.